German Market: New Jetta In-Depth

The information below is specific to the German-market Jetta V. While there are some differences between the two market versions, we’ve decided to feature this press release as there are a number of general similarities.

Wolfsburg, 15 August 2005 – The Jetta returns to Europe. Already on the North American market since the start of the year, the more sportier than ever Volkswagen will now complete the saloon range below the new Passat. The notchback model technically based on the globally successful Golf has long since established itself as the most popular car from a European manufacturer in the USA.

The new Jetta again shows more of an individual character to distance itself from the Golf. Due to its superior agility and high level of spacious comfort, the 4.55-metre (179.1 inches) long Jetta addresses customers, who appreciate sporty driving properties, a generous amount of space as well as sophisticated design. Particularly in countries like the UK, Turkey or France and Spain, the sporty elegant saloon will be driven more by a younger customer group.

MARKET – The new saloon is a global player – delivered to all continents from Mexico

A few facts on the success of the Jetta in the USA: Between New York and Los Angeles, the practical saloon has attracted over 2.2 million buyers since its launch in 1980. The Jetta therefore accounts for a volume share of around 40 percent within the brand. No other vehicle from a European carmaker is as popular among US citizens as this Volkswagen.

In the old world too, the Jetta can now look back on 26 years of success. Including the Vento (1991 to 1998) and the Bora (1998 to 2005), over 6.6 million models from this series have rolled off the production line. Alongside Germany and the UK, Turkey is, for example, a very strong Jetta market. The Volkswagen has generally recorded successes in the whole European region and the Asian economic zone.

Mainly because of the Jetta’s domination of the North American market, the new generation will now be built at Volkswagen’s Mexican plant in Puebla. Thanks to its high quality standards, Puebla is one of the group’s leading production sites. A daily Jetta production of up to 850 is planned in Mexico. The first Jettas from the new generation destined for Europe left Mexico on 19 July.

In Europe, Volkswagen will offer the new Jetta in three specially coordinated trim lines — Trendline, Comfortline and Sportline — as well as with four advanced petrol and three turbo diesel engines. The engine outputs range from 75 kW /102 hp (1.6) to 147 kW /200 hp (Jetta 2.0 FSI Turbo). They all fulfil the strict EU4 emissions norm.

Six-speed manuals are used as standard with the engines delivering 85 kW and above. Volkswagen offers the highly efficient and sporty double-clutch gearbox (DSG) as an option for the TDI and the 2.0 FSI Turbo (as featured in the Golf GTI) delivering 147 kW. It has six forward gears and shifts extremely fast without interrupting traction. Like the classic Tiptronic, the DSG can also be controlled manually using a plus/minus gate. The six-speed automatic Tiptronic function is also available for the 75-kW and 110-kW petrol engines.

DESIGN / DIMENSIONS – Exciting mixture of dynamics and elegance: The new Jetta shows a completely new sophistication

The most striking design feature on the new Jetta is the front end with its chrome-framed radiator grille. On the fifth generation of the model, this face supports the claim that this car is significantly more independent, sportier and elegant. The V-shaped radiator grille stylishly indicates the relationship to the new Passat and Golf GTI, which were the first two production models to feature the new “VW Face”. As a result, the front section features sharper lines making it more dynamic and also more elegant than before.

The rear is also striking: It also follows the style of the current VW design line and features the very fast responding LED lights that are now typical for Volkswagen. At the same time, the side view enhances the athletic appearance of the four-door. The flat rear windscreen and comparatively short boot lid give the silhouette a coupé-like shape.

Compared with its predecessor the Bora, the new Jetta has grown in all directions. As a result, there is considerably more space for rear passengers in particular. The body, which is 15 percent more torsionally stiff, has been stretched 17.8 centimetres (7 inches) to 4.55 metres (179.1 inches). The five-seater saloon is 1.46 metres tall (57.5 inches) (+ 1.3 cm) and has gained 4.6 centimetres (1.8 inches) of width (1.78 m). At the same time, the wheelbase is now 2.58 metres (101.6 inches). This means it has grown 6.5 centimetres (2.6 inches). The ample track width at the front and rear noticeably improves the driving dynamics of the new model.

Folding rear seat back and folding front passenger seat backrest

The passengers on board the Jetta benefit almost exclusively from the exterior growth: The effective legroom has increased 6.5 centimetres (2.6 inches). At 143.7 centimetres (56.7 inches), the interior width has gained an extra 3.5 centimetres (1.4 inches). Adults can look forward to over 2.4 centimetres more headroom in the rear thanks, among other things, to a slightly lower seat position.

Drivers and front passengers have gained four centimetres of interior width. The front seat adjustment range has been increased 2.2 centimetres lengthways so that even real giants will be able to find a relaxing seat position. In total, the new Jetta has an interior length of 1.74 metres (68.5 inches) — 5.4 centimetres (2.13 inches) more than the Bora.

The interior is characterised by a clear, fresh and stylish design. All controls have been designed to be self-explanatory. For example, the instruments: All function levels are clearly separated, all buttons and switches are intuitive. The controls for the air conditioning are located immediately above the centre tunnel, which stretches upwards above the gear lever. Above that is a row of buttons for functions like the heated rear window, recirculation and seat heating. Next up is the radio or radio navigation system with a large central display. Right at the top is the hazard warning lights switch, air vents and another storage compartment (not with Climatronic).

BOOT – The enormous luggage compartment in the new Jetta holds up to 527 litres (18.6 cu. ft.) — you can take full advantage of this volume thanks to a generous payload

The new Jetta has endless cargo space with a boot volume of 527 litres (18.6 cu. ft.) – 72 litres (2.5 cu. ft.) more than the previous model. Compared with the Bora, the cargo area length has grown 10.2 centimetres (4 inches) to 1.16 metres (45.7 inches), the widest point has even gained 25 centimetres (9.8 inches) and the maximum boot height has been increased by 3.8 centimetres (1.5 inches).

Storage box system

When the rear backrest is folded down, objects up to 1.90 metres (74.8 inches) in length fit inside the Jetta. This means an extra 26 centimetres (9.8 inches). The rear bench backrest itself is asymmetrically split and folding as standard and, thanks to the optimised backrest pivot point, creates a full-length cargo floor.

The Jetta Comfortline and Sportline also come with a decent-sized through-load facility as standard. It is large enough, for example, to hold two snowboards and is available as an option for the Jetta Trendline. To increase the maximum cargo length further, a folding front passenger backrest is available for the Jetta Trendline and Jetta Comfortline.

Furthermore the Jetta has numerous smaller storage compartments. They include compartments under the front seats, pockets on the back of the front seat backrests and bag hooks in the side panels of the boot. There are also storage compartments on and underneath the instrument panel as well as in the roof console. The centre console has two cup holders and a storage compartment. This can be cooled using the standard air conditioning. The door pockets securely hold 1-litre bottles.

Thanks to a maximum payload of up to 602 kilograms (Jetta 1.6), the boot volume can also be used to the full without you worrying about weight. At the same time, the Jetta versions delivering 77 kW or more can tow braked trailers weighing up to 1.7 tonnes (with 8 percent gradient).

The new Jetta has numerous innovative functions that allow a very high level of user friendliness thanks to the intelligent networking. For example, the standard air conditioning automatically switches to recirculation when reverse gear is selected or when you use the washer function to prevent unpleasant odours entering the car. Up to 40 fully diagnosis-compatible control units communicate with each other using the latest CAN BUS technology – there were just 16 in the previous Bora model. This also contributes to safety: The electromechanical power steering even works when the ignition is switched off, until the speed and rpm signal indicates that the car has come to an absolute standstill.

DVD NAVIGATION / COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS – High-tech navigation system with dynamic guidance as well as audio systems with high-quality sound

There is a wide range of radio CD and radio navigation systems available for the Jetta. The systems range from 40 to 250 Watt output power in hi-fi quality through up to ten specially configured speakers. The audio systems (and the optional car phone) can be controlled via a multi-function steering wheel if desired.

The high-end RNS MFD-DVD navigation system has a 6.5-inch multi-function display in the centre console. Thanks to DVD-supported navigation, you no longer have to insert a new country CD when you cross borders within Europe. The actual driving recommendations are given acoustically parallel to the visual guidance in the multi-function display as well as visually in the “Plus” multi-function display. This display is located in the centre of the instrument panel directly in the driver’s field of vision.

LED TAILLIGHTS – The parking lights, brake lights and turn signals on the new Jetta use high-tech diode technology

After making their debut in the Phaeton, the Golf Plus and Passat, LED taillights are now also being used in the new Jetta. The advantage of this innovative technology: The attractive and high-quality-looking “Light Emitting Diodes” are superior to conventional taillights due to their considerably brighter illumination. In addition, they have a faster response time, consume less energy, have a longer lifespan and are not sensitive to bumps.

TYRE PRESSURE MONITOR – Tyre pressure under control thanks to sensors, automatic warning when pressure is lost

The tyre pressure monitor comes as standard in the Jetta Comfortline. The system constantly measures the tyre pressure at each wheel using special sensors. These values are sent to the so-called convenience control unit via a data telegram. The control unit software evaluates the information. If the tyre pressure differs significantly from the pre-programmed pressure, a warning light will inform the driver about the problem.

SIX AIRBAGS – The new Jetta is one of the safest vehicles thanks to its complex restraint concept

The Jetta features a particularly effective protection system. All versions of the sporty notchback have six airbags as standard. In addition to the front, side and side head airbags, side airbags for the rear passengers are available as options. The front restraint systems in the Jetta are made up of a driver’s airbag with 60 litres of volume as well as a front passenger airbag with a volume of 120 litres.

In head-on collisions, the pedals fold forward to prevent accidents to the leg region. The basic model comes with five three-point seat belts, pyrotechnic belt tensioners and belt force limiters. Head restraints that can be set high for all five occupants (i.e. also for the rear centre seat) are, of course, included. Active head restraints (AHR) also protect the driver and front passenger in rear-end collisions.

The side airbags — integrated again in the front seat backrests for ideal positioning for the passengers — have been designed precisely for the side structure of the car and provide exemplary protection for thorax, abdomen and pelvis. A new sensor concept allows even faster deployment times in side collisions.

The large-sized side curtains prevent unnecessarily high biomechanical loads. They cover the side window area from the A to the C-pillar and reach from the headliner to over the door sill. This allows — depending on the size of the passenger — maximum protection on all outer seats. Also, in accidents, the fact that these airbags cover such a large area prevents the head from swinging out, extremities from being thrown out and objects from penetrating the interior.

If necessary, the front passenger airbag can be deactivated, for example, when children travel in reboard seats in the front. Isofix anchors for child seats are provided on the outer rear seats as standard. Volkswagen has also developed a specially designed Isofix child seat. The high-quality and very practical Bobsy G1 Isofix Duo plus is particularly suited to children weighing from nine to eighteen kilograms, i.e. for ages between eight months and four years. Its seat shell can be locked at three different angles. The height of the safety harness is easy to adjust.

The dynamic safety chassis for the new Jetta provides a successful synthesis of outstanding sportiness and convincing comfort qualities. A strut front axle, which has been extensively optimised compared with the previous Bora model, along with an all-new multi-link rear axle decisively improve handling, driving comfort and safety. Boarder track widths at the front and rear lower the centre of gravity of the agile notchback. This allows higher cornering speeds and a more precise driving feel. The advanced electromechanical power steering provides assistance related to the speed, stabilises straight running and reduces the average consumption of the new Jetta by up to 0.2 litres.

Chassis – Complex multi-link rear axle optimises comfort and agility

FRONT AXLE – Greatly optimised strut front axle: Even more agile, precise and comfortable than before

The strut front axle with lower wishbone from the Bora has been extensively revised in numerous areas for use in the new Jetta. Greater transverse stiffness at the wheel contact point ensures improved steering precision. The stabiliser bar attachment reduces the body roll. The ride and driving comfort benefits from the optimised angled shock absorbers, the new bearing concept of the lower transverse link and the separate mounting of the spring and damper on the strut tower.

The truly innovative multi-link rear axle in the new Jetta allows both superior driving comfort and perfect handling properties. Thanks to this axle concept, the longitudinal and transverse dynamics of the new model can be optimised more or less independently of each other. Thanks to their carefully configured bearings, the three transverse links define the wheel variables like the track and camber that allow safe and agile cornering. The trailing link with its large-sized bearings define the longitudinal movement of the wheel. Thanks to a slight toe-in angle, they also help prevent brake dive. In this way, they ensure stable road holding even when you brake in curves. Thanks to its refined kinematics or elasto kinematics, the Jetta’s multi-link axle also easily meets the requirements for different loading states.

The extremely harmonious steering properties and the very precise steering feel in the new Jetta are down to the electromechanical power steering (EPS = Electrical Power Steering). It offers numerous advantages for the driving dynamics and also reduces the fuel consumption by up to 0.2 litres per 100 kilometres. Technical background: Unlike conventional hydraulic solutions, the electromechanical system only acts when you turn the steering wheel. While you are driving straight ahead, it does not normally need any power. One exception: If the “intuitive” steering detects that the road is sloping crossways, it will countersteer accordingly. The driver can therefore hold the Jetta on course more or less without any steering force.

The immediate response of the steering from the centre position supports a particularly precise steering feel that improves safety and driving fun. The appropriate steering moment is built up for even the smallest steering angles. Thanks to the active return, the steering wheel automatically heads back to the centre position when you exit curves.

The powerful and solid brakes on the new Jetta form the basis for ideal short braking distances. It is characterised in particular by quick response and low brake pedal forces. Thanks to ABS plus ESP with the integrated brake assist DBA (Dual Brake Assist), it makes an important contribution to increasing active vehicle safety.

In all versions of the Jetta, vented disc brakes are used at the front with diameters ranging from 280 millimetres (11 inch) to 312 millimetres (12.3 inch) (2.0 FSI Turbo). Disc brakes with diameters from 260 (10.2 inches) to 288 millimetres (11.3 inches) are used on the rear axle.

Compared with the Bora, the latest generation of the electronic stabilisation program (ESP) has a series of new features:

ATCM (Adaptive Track Control Model): The car is also constantly monitored when the handling is stable. The advantage of this is that if the car becomes unstable, the system can correct it faster.

LDE (Low Dynamic ESP): Intervenes even when there are small deviations during braking even though the car is still travelling stably.

FRAD (Full Rear Axle Deceleration): Actively increases the pressure on the rear axle up to ABS intervention if the front wheels are in the ABS range, but the rear wheels are not.